Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method of transmitting an uplink signal in an unlicensed band for by a terminal configured to support multiple transmission time interval (TTI) lengths in a wireless communication system, the method comprising: receiving a scheduling indication for one or more transmission time intervals (TTIS); performing channel sensing in a clear channel assessment (CCA) gap for the one or more TTIs according to the received scheduling indication; and transmitting an uplink reference signal for the one or more TTIs in a predetermined symbol based on that channel sensing is successfully performed for at least one of the one more TTIs, wherein the uplink reference signal is transmitted in a partial frequency resource of the predetermined symbol, and wherein the channel sensing is performed only in a partial frequency resource within the CCA gap corresponding to a partial frequency resource of the predetermined symbol.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the CCA gap for the one or more TTIs is common to the one or more TTIs.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to techniques for managing clear channel assessment (CCA) gaps in time transmission intervals (TTIs) to improve spectrum utilization and reduce latency. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in current systems where CCA gaps are individually configured for each TTI, leading to unnecessary delays and underutilization of available spectrum. The invention provides a method where a common CCA gap is applied across multiple TTIs, ensuring that the same CCA duration is used for all TTIs in a given communication session. This common gap is determined based on factors such as channel conditions, traffic load, and regulatory requirements, allowing for optimized spectrum access without redundant CCA checks. The method includes dynamically adjusting the common CCA gap in response to changing conditions, ensuring efficient spectrum usage while maintaining compliance with regulatory standards. By standardizing the CCA gap across TTIs, the invention reduces overhead, minimizes latency, and improves overall system throughput. The approach is particularly useful in dense wireless networks where efficient spectrum sharing is critical. The method may be implemented in wireless devices, base stations, or network controllers, depending on the system architecture. The invention enhances spectrum efficiency and reliability in wireless communications, making it suitable for applications such as 5G, IoT, and other high-density wireless environments.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the CCA gap for the one or more TTIs includes a CCA gap for each of the one or more TTIs.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to methods for managing clear channel assessment (CCA) gaps in transmission time intervals (TTIs) to improve spectrum utilization and reduce interference. The problem addressed is the inefficient use of spectrum due to fixed or improperly configured CCA gaps, which can lead to unnecessary delays or collisions in unlicensed or shared spectrum environments. The method involves dynamically adjusting the CCA gap for each TTI in a communication system. The CCA gap is the period during which a device checks for channel availability before transmitting. By assigning a distinct CCA gap to each TTI, the system can optimize channel access based on real-time conditions, such as traffic load, interference levels, or priority of transmissions. This approach allows for more flexible and efficient spectrum sharing, reducing contention and improving overall throughput. The method may also include determining the CCA gap duration based on predefined rules, network conditions, or device capabilities. For example, higher-priority transmissions may be assigned shorter CCA gaps to ensure timely access, while lower-priority transmissions may use longer gaps to avoid interference. Additionally, the method may involve coordinating CCA gaps across multiple devices to minimize collisions and maximize spectrum efficiency. By implementing this technique, the system can adapt to varying channel conditions and traffic demands, leading to better utilization of available spectrum resources. This is particularly useful in dense wireless networks where multiple devices compete for limited spectrum.
4. The method of claim 1 , when channel sensing is successfully performed in the CCA gap for the one or more TTIs, further comprising transmitting an uplink channel in the last TTI among the one or more TTIs.
In wireless communication systems, efficient use of spectrum resources is critical, particularly in environments where multiple devices share the same frequency bands. A key challenge is ensuring reliable transmission while minimizing interference, often through techniques like clear channel assessment (CCA) to determine if a channel is available before transmitting. This invention addresses the need for improved uplink transmission scheduling in such systems, particularly in scenarios where multiple transmission time intervals (TTIs) are available for communication. The method involves performing channel sensing (CCA) during a designated gap period to assess channel availability across one or more TTIs. If the sensing is successful—meaning the channel is determined to be free—an uplink channel is transmitted in the last TTI of the available TTIs. This approach optimizes resource utilization by ensuring that transmissions occur only when the channel is confirmed to be clear, reducing collisions and improving overall network efficiency. The method may also include additional steps such as adjusting transmission parameters or selecting specific TTIs based on sensing results, though the core innovation lies in the conditional transmission in the final TTI of a successfully sensed sequence. This technique is particularly useful in dense wireless networks where contention for spectrum is high, such as in IoT or 5G NR-U deployments.
5. The method of claim 1 , when channel sensing is successfully performed in the CCA gap for the one or more TTIs, further comprising transmitting an uplink channel in all of the one or more TTIs.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving uplink transmission efficiency in scenarios where channel sensing (Clear Channel Assessment, CCA) is performed. The problem addressed is the inefficient use of transmission opportunities when CCA is successful across multiple transmission time intervals (TTIs). Traditionally, if CCA is successful, a device may transmit in only some TTIs, leaving others unused. This invention optimizes resource utilization by ensuring that when CCA is successful for one or more TTIs, an uplink channel is transmitted in all of those TTIs, maximizing data throughput and reducing latency. The method involves performing CCA during a CCA gap to determine channel availability. If the channel is clear for one or more TTIs, the device transmits an uplink channel in every available TTI within that period. This approach ensures continuous transmission without gaps, improving spectral efficiency. The invention also includes mechanisms to handle cases where CCA fails, allowing the device to retry or adjust transmission parameters. The system may operate in licensed or unlicensed spectrum, where CCA is mandatory to avoid interference with other users. By fully utilizing all available TTIs upon successful CCA, the invention enhances overall network performance and reliability.
6. The method of claim 1 , wherein a channel sensing threshold for the uplink reference signal is different from a channel sensing threshold for an uplink channel.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of optimizing channel sensing thresholds for different types of uplink transmissions. In wireless networks, devices must sense the channel before transmitting to avoid interference. However, traditional systems often apply a uniform channel sensing threshold for all uplink transmissions, which can lead to inefficiencies. For example, using the same threshold for both uplink reference signals (used for synchronization and channel estimation) and uplink data channels (used for actual data transmission) may result in unnecessary delays or wasted resources. The invention improves upon this by implementing distinct channel sensing thresholds for uplink reference signals and uplink channels. The threshold for uplink reference signals is set differently from the threshold for uplink channels, allowing for more flexible and efficient channel access. This differentiation enables the system to prioritize critical reference signals while optimizing data transmission efficiency. By adjusting the thresholds independently, the system can reduce interference, improve reliability, and enhance overall network performance. The method ensures that reference signals, which are often time-sensitive, are transmitted with minimal delay, while data channels can be accessed more efficiently based on their specific requirements. This approach is particularly useful in dense wireless networks where efficient spectrum utilization is crucial.
7. The method of claim 1 , wherein a channel sensing window size or a backoff threshold for the uplink reference signal is different from a channel sensing threshold for an uplink channel.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically addressing challenges in channel sensing and uplink reference signal transmission. The method involves adjusting channel sensing parameters to optimize uplink communication efficiency. A key aspect is differentiating the channel sensing window size or backoff threshold for uplink reference signals from the channel sensing threshold used for uplink data channels. This differentiation allows for more flexible and efficient use of the wireless medium, reducing collisions and improving overall system performance. The method ensures that reference signals, which are critical for synchronization and channel estimation, are transmitted with appropriate sensing parameters, while data channels operate under distinct thresholds to balance reliability and throughput. By customizing these parameters, the system can adapt to varying network conditions, enhancing both the accuracy of channel assessments and the efficiency of uplink transmissions. This approach is particularly useful in dense wireless environments where interference and contention for resources are significant concerns. The invention aims to improve the reliability and efficiency of uplink communications in wireless networks by dynamically adjusting channel sensing parameters based on the type of signal being transmitted.
8. The method of claim 1 , further comprising transmitting an uplink channel in a frequency resource corresponding to a partial frequency resource within the CCA gap in a TTI at which the channel sensing is successfully performed.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for improving channel access efficiency in unlicensed spectrum environments. The problem addressed is the inefficient use of frequency resources during contention-based channel access, where devices perform clear channel assessment (CCA) to detect available spectrum before transmission. Existing methods often leave portions of the spectrum unused during the CCA gap, reducing overall throughput. The method involves a device performing channel sensing (CCA) to determine if a frequency resource is available for transmission. If the sensing is successful, the device transmits an uplink channel using only a partial frequency resource within the CCA gap of a transmission time interval (TTI). This partial resource is a subset of the full available spectrum, allowing the device to utilize otherwise idle frequency bands during the CCA period. The approach optimizes spectrum utilization by dynamically allocating only the necessary portion of the spectrum for transmission, reducing wasted resources and improving efficiency in unlicensed spectrum operations. The method can be applied in various wireless communication standards, including 5G and beyond, where efficient spectrum sharing is critical.
9. The method of claim 1 , wherein the uplink reference signal is transmitted together with an uplink data channel or an uplink control channel in a TTI in which the predetermined symbol is included.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving the transmission of uplink reference signals in time division duplex (TDD) or frequency division duplex (FDD) systems. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable transmission of reference signals to support channel estimation and demodulation, particularly in scenarios where uplink data or control channels are also being transmitted. The method involves transmitting an uplink reference signal in the same transmission time interval (TTI) as an uplink data channel or an uplink control channel. The reference signal is transmitted in a predetermined symbol within the TTI, ensuring that the reference signal and the data or control channel share the same time resource. This co-transmission allows for better synchronization and reduces overhead by avoiding the need for separate time slots for reference signals. The reference signal can be used for channel estimation, enabling the receiver to accurately demodulate the accompanying data or control information. The method is particularly useful in systems where bandwidth efficiency and low latency are critical, such as in 5G and beyond networks. By integrating the reference signal with the data or control channel, the system achieves improved spectral efficiency and reliability in uplink communications.
10. A terminal configured to transmit an uplink signal in an unlicensed band a wireless communication system, the terminal comprising: a transmitter and a receiver; and a processor that: controls the transmitter and the receiver, wherein the processor receives a scheduling indication for one or more transmission time intervals (TTIS); performs channel sensing in a clear channel assessment (CCA) gap for the one or more TTIs according to the received scheduling indication, and transmits an uplink reference signal for the one or more TTIs in a predetermined symbol based on that channel sensing is successfully performed for at least one of the one or more TTIs, wherein the uplink reference signal is transmitted in a partial frequency resource of the predetermined symbol, and wherein the channel sensing is performed only in a partial frequency resource within the CCA gap corresponding to a partial frequency resource of the predetermined symbol.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems operating in unlicensed frequency bands, addressing challenges in efficient uplink signal transmission while complying with regulatory requirements for channel access. The terminal includes a transmitter, receiver, and processor that manages uplink transmissions in one or more transmission time intervals (TTIs). The processor receives scheduling indications for these TTIs and performs clear channel assessment (CCA) sensing in a CCA gap to determine channel availability. If sensing is successful for at least one TTI, the terminal transmits an uplink reference signal in a predetermined symbol, but only in a partial frequency resource of that symbol. The CCA sensing itself is restricted to a partial frequency resource within the CCA gap, corresponding to the partial frequency resource of the predetermined symbol. This approach optimizes spectrum usage by limiting sensing and transmission to specific frequency segments, reducing interference and improving efficiency in unlicensed bands. The invention ensures compliance with regulatory channel access rules while enabling reliable uplink reference signal transmission.
11. The terminal of claim 10 , wherein the CCA gap for the one or more TTIs is common to the one or more TTIs.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to techniques for managing clear channel assessment (CCA) gaps in transmission time intervals (TTIs) to improve efficiency and reduce interference. The problem addressed is the need for a standardized approach to CCA gaps across multiple TTIs to ensure consistent and reliable channel access in dense wireless environments. The invention describes a terminal device configured to perform CCA before transmitting data in one or more TTIs. The terminal includes a controller that determines a CCA gap duration, which is the time interval between the end of CCA and the start of data transmission. The key innovation is that the CCA gap is common to all TTIs, meaning the same gap duration is applied uniformly across multiple TTIs. This ensures synchronization and reduces the risk of collisions or interference between transmissions in different TTIs. The terminal may also adjust the CCA gap based on network conditions or regulatory requirements, ensuring compliance while maintaining efficiency. The invention improves spectral efficiency and reliability in wireless networks by standardizing CCA procedures across TTIs.
12. The terminal of claim 10 , wherein the CCA gap for the one or more TTIs includes a CCA gap for each of the one or more TTIs.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to techniques for managing clear channel assessment (CCA) gaps in transmission time intervals (TTIs) to improve spectrum utilization and reduce interference. The problem addressed is the inefficient use of spectrum due to fixed or improperly configured CCA gaps, which can lead to unnecessary delays or collisions in unlicensed or shared spectrum environments. The terminal device includes a processor configured to determine a CCA gap for one or more TTIs, where the CCA gap is dynamically adjusted based on factors such as channel conditions, traffic load, or regulatory requirements. The CCA gap is applied individually for each TTI, allowing for fine-grained control over channel access. The terminal may also include a transceiver to perform the CCA procedure and transmit or receive data within the determined TTIs. The dynamic adjustment of CCA gaps ensures efficient spectrum usage while minimizing interference with other devices operating in the same frequency band. This approach is particularly useful in dense wireless networks where multiple devices compete for channel access.
13. The terminal of claim 10 , wherein when channel sensing is successfully performed in the CCA gap for the one or more TTIs, the processor transmits an uplink channel in the last TTI among the one or more TTIs.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving uplink transmission efficiency in scenarios where channel sensing (Clear Channel Assessment, CCA) is required before transmission. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable uplink communication while minimizing delays and resource wastage when multiple transmission time intervals (TTIs) are available for potential transmission. The system includes a terminal with a processor and a transceiver. The processor is configured to perform channel sensing during a CCA gap before transmitting uplink data. If the channel is successfully sensed as free in one or more TTIs, the terminal transmits the uplink channel in the last TTI of the available TTIs. This approach optimizes resource usage by deferring transmission to the latest possible TTI, reducing interference and improving overall network efficiency. The terminal may also adjust the CCA gap duration based on network conditions or predefined rules to enhance sensing accuracy and transmission reliability. The transceiver handles the actual data transmission and reception, while the processor manages the sensing and scheduling logic. This method ensures that uplink transmissions occur only when the channel is confirmed to be free, minimizing collisions and improving spectral efficiency in wireless networks.
14. The terminal of claim 10 , wherein when channel sensing is successfully performed in the CCA gap for the one or more TTIs, the processor transmits an uplink channel in all of the one or more TTIs.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving uplink transmission efficiency in scenarios where channel sensing (Clear Channel Assessment, CCA) is required before transmission. The problem addressed is ensuring reliable and efficient uplink communication in environments where multiple devices compete for channel access, such as in unlicensed or shared spectrum scenarios. The invention describes a terminal device configured to perform channel sensing during a CCA gap before transmitting uplink data. The terminal includes a processor that, upon successful channel sensing in the CCA gap for one or more Transmission Time Intervals (TTIs), transmits an uplink channel in all of the one or more TTIs. This ensures that once the channel is confirmed to be clear, the terminal utilizes the full duration of the available TTIs for data transmission, maximizing throughput and minimizing latency. The terminal may also include a transceiver for wireless communication and a memory storing instructions for the processor to execute these functions. The invention further includes mechanisms to handle cases where channel sensing fails, such as retrying or adjusting transmission parameters. The terminal may also support dynamic allocation of TTIs based on network conditions or quality of service requirements. This approach enhances spectral efficiency and reduces contention in shared wireless environments.
15. The terminal of claim 10 , wherein a channel sensing threshold for the uplink reference signal is different from a channel sensing threshold for an uplink channel.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to terminals (e.g., user devices) that transmit uplink reference signals and uplink data channels. The problem addressed is optimizing channel sensing thresholds to improve communication efficiency and reliability. In wireless networks, terminals must sense the channel before transmitting to avoid interference. However, using the same sensing threshold for both uplink reference signals (e.g., signals used for synchronization or channel estimation) and uplink data channels (e.g., signals carrying user data) may not be optimal. The invention solves this by configuring the terminal to use different channel sensing thresholds for these two types of transmissions. For example, the threshold for uplink reference signals may be set lower to ensure these critical signals are transmitted more reliably, while the threshold for uplink data channels may be higher to reduce unnecessary transmissions when the channel is congested. This differentiation allows the terminal to balance reliability and efficiency, improving overall network performance. The terminal may adjust these thresholds dynamically based on network conditions or predefined configurations. The invention applies to various wireless standards, including 5G and beyond.
16. The terminal of claim 10 , wherein a channel sensing window size or a backoff threshold for the uplink reference signal is different from a channel sensing threshold for an uplink channel.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to techniques for managing uplink reference signals and uplink channels in environments where channel sensing is required. The problem addressed is the need to optimize channel sensing parameters to improve communication efficiency and reliability in shared spectrum scenarios, such as those involving unlicensed or lightly licensed bands. The invention describes a terminal device configured to transmit uplink reference signals and uplink data channels, where the channel sensing parameters for these signals differ. Specifically, the terminal adjusts the channel sensing window size or backoff threshold for uplink reference signals separately from the channel sensing threshold applied to uplink data channels. This differentiation allows for more flexible and efficient use of the communication channel, as reference signals may require different sensing criteria than data transmissions. The terminal may also include a controller to manage these parameters dynamically based on network conditions or predefined rules. Additionally, the terminal may support multiple transmission modes, including contention-based and scheduled transmissions, and may adjust sensing parameters accordingly. The invention also covers methods for determining and applying these differentiated sensing thresholds to ensure proper operation in shared spectrum environments. The overall goal is to enhance spectral efficiency and reduce interference while maintaining reliable communication links.
17. The terminal of claim 10 , wherein the processor transmits an uplink channel in a frequency resource corresponding to a partial frequency resource within the CCA gap in a TTI at which the channel sensing is successfully performed.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically to techniques for efficient channel access in unlicensed spectrum. The problem addressed is the need for terminals to quickly and reliably transmit data in a shared frequency band while avoiding collisions with other devices. The invention describes a terminal with a processor that performs channel sensing (clear channel assessment, CCA) to determine if a frequency resource is available for transmission. If the sensing is successful, the processor transmits an uplink channel using only a portion of the available frequency resource within a time transmission interval (TTI). This partial frequency resource is selected from within a CCA gap—a brief period where the channel is confirmed to be free. By using only a portion of the available spectrum, the terminal reduces interference and improves coexistence with other devices operating in the same band. The invention also includes mechanisms for dynamically adjusting the partial frequency resource based on network conditions or interference levels. This approach enhances spectral efficiency and reliability in unlicensed spectrum environments, such as Wi-Fi or 5G NR-U deployments. The terminal may further include a transceiver for wireless communication and a memory for storing configuration parameters related to the partial frequency resource selection. The invention ensures efficient use of spectrum while minimizing contention with other wireless systems.
18. The terminal of claim 10 , wherein the uplink reference signal is transmitted together with an uplink data channel or an uplink control channel in a TTI in which the predetermined symbol is included.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving the transmission of uplink reference signals in time division duplex (TDD) or frequency division duplex (FDD) systems. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and reliable uplink reference signal transmission to support channel estimation and demodulation, particularly in scenarios where timing or frequency synchronization may be critical. The terminal device includes a transmitter configured to transmit an uplink reference signal in a transmission time interval (TTI) that includes a predetermined symbol. The uplink reference signal is transmitted concurrently with either an uplink data channel or an uplink control channel within the same TTI. This concurrent transmission allows for more efficient use of resources by avoiding the need for separate time or frequency slots for the reference signal, thereby improving spectral efficiency and reducing latency. The predetermined symbol may be a specific time or frequency resource within the TTI, ensuring that the reference signal is transmitted at a predictable and synchronized time, aiding in accurate channel estimation at the receiver. The terminal may also include a receiver to receive downlink control information that specifies the transmission parameters for the uplink reference signal, such as timing, frequency, or modulation scheme, ensuring flexibility in adapting to varying channel conditions. This approach enhances reliability and performance in wireless communication systems by optimizing the transmission of reference signals alongside data or control channels.
Unknown
July 7, 2020
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